downward mobility

downward mobility noun

1. See under vertical mobility(def 1).

Related formsdownwardly mobile, adjective vertical mobility noun Sociology.

1. movement from one social level to a higher one (upward mobility) or a lower one (downward mobility), as by changing jobs or marrying.
2. cultural diffusion from one social level to another, as the adoption by one economic class of the fashions current or formerly current in a higher class.

Compare horizontal mobility. British Dictionary definitions for downward mobility downward mobility noun

1. sociol the movement of an individual, social group, or class to a lower statusCompare upward mobility See also horizontal mobility, vertical mobility

vertical mobility noun

1. sociol the movement of individuals or groups to positions in society that involve a change in class, status, and powerCompare horizontal mobility See also upward mobility, downward mobility